IHF, DD embroiled in major row

A major row has erupted between the Indian Hockey Federation and national broadcaster Prasar Bharti over the production of next month's Champions Trophy.

Written by NDTVSports

Read Time: 1 mins

New Delhi:

A major row has erupted between the Indian Hockey Federation and national broadcaster Prasar Bharti over the production of next month's Champions Trophy.
IHF wanted Doordarshan to produce the feed for the Champions Trophy, but the public broadcaster say they won't do it unless they are paid.
"We are prepared to show it, but won't do it for free for TEN Sports," said K S Sarma, CEO, Prasar Bharati.
Free ride
IHF President KPS Gill was not available for comment. The Federation is obliged to provide a telecast feed to TEN Sports, but according to Doordarshan, they are looking for a free ride.
"FIH and IHF seemed to have come to an agreement without consulting the public broadcaster. I told this to Mr Gill and he agreed with me," said Sarma.
Meanwhile, Gill's detractors have latched on to the opportunity to target him.
"These things are not discussed in the executive or the AGM. One party takes 15-20 per cent commission," said Narinder Batra, Sr Vice-President, IHF.
Doordarshan, however, is quite clear that they are being maligned for not wanting to telecast the country's national game.
Sarma is clearly waiting for the notification on the government order making it mandatory for sharing the feed of all sporting events.